September 22, 2012

Baylor comes out on top against ULM

The momentum head coach Art Briles anticipated from University of Louisiana-Monroe had no shortcomings tonight.

The first quarter of the game was nothing short of shocking. After a controversial call by the officials, a ULM pass was called incomplete, resulting in a turnover to the Bears.

Unfortunately, instead of capitalizing on this opportunity, Baylor starting quarterback Nick Florence threw an interception to give the ball right back to the Warhawks.

Early in the week, Briles had commented on how his team needs to take more advantage of these unanticipated opportunities they receive, but the first quarter just wasn’t headed in the right direction for Baylor. Florence also had another interception in the first quarter to give the Warhawks the advantage.

During the first quarter, ULM utilized a two quarterback approach, which effectively gave them a 14-0 lead going in to the second quarter.

The rest of the half was a battle for the lead between the two teams, and after the teams hit the locker room during the half, ULM came back with a bang quickly scoring a touchdown, giving them a 28-24 lead.

Baylor responded with a 46-yard touchdown pass to Tevin Reese and a field goal kick from Aaron Jones to give Baylor the 28-34 lead at the end of the third quarter.

The win was clinched for the Bears when ULM’s running back Jyruss Edwards fumbled a ball that was then recovered by Baylor. After 10 plays, Florence connected with Baylor receiver Terrance Williams on a 22-yard pass, converting the turnover to a touchdown.

After five lead exchanges and one tie, Baylor was able to bring home the 42-47 win. And the Warhawks were able to play a game without pushing it into overtime.

The offensively dominant game resulted in over 500 total offensive yards for each team, with Florence going 26 for 39 and passing for 351 yards with a career-high four touchdowns.

Hopefully the competitive environment and high energy of this game helped prepare Baylor as they prepare to take on West Virginia on the road next Saturday.